BUYING specs online could save you money, but at the same time it might put your vision at risk.
Optometry Australia is urging people to buy their glasses from an optometrist, even if buying online or over-the-counter is more convenient or less expensive.
"By shirking regular eye check-ups, people are missing the opportunity for early detection and treatment of eye diseases like glaucoma, macular degeneration and cataracts," said the organisation's resident optometrist Simon Hanna.
Buying online also comes with the risk of getting the wrong prescription, as our vision often changes as we age.
"Between the ages of 45 and 65, your prescription is likely to change significantly every few years," Mr Hanna said.
"Using an inaccurate prescription will only compromise your vision and quality of life."
Mr Hanna said optometrists tailor glasses to the wearer to make sure they get the right fit.
"Online prescription glasses use estimated fitting heights or patient-calculated measurements," he said.
"For example, with progressive lenses, the measurement between the centre of the two pupils needs to be spot-on, otherwise vision can be blurred and distorted, increasing the risk of falls and other accidents.
"Not only does an optometrist work with the precise measurements, they also know how your prescription strength and weight of your lenses contribute to whether your glasses will be comfortable and look good.
"Glasses are one item you should try on before you buy as every face varies and not all frame shapes suit every face shape.
"No one wants to end up with ill-fitting and uncomfortable frames that do not suit them."